A Guide to Podiatrists
Posted on: 8 August 2018
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If you have had a problem with your feet or lower limbs, you might have given thought to visit a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a medical professional that prevents, diagnoses and manages conditions of the lower limbs and feet. The podiatrist aims to relieve pain and restore functionality of the feet and lower limbs when affected by a disease. The history of podiatry dates back to ancient Egypt. However, the profession was accepted as a conventional medicinal intervention in the early 20th century.
Below is a short description of the work of the podiatrist.
What illnesses does a podiatrist treat?
The podiatrist may deal with toenail conditions such as fungal infections and ingrown toenails. He or she also treats smelly feet, athlete's foot, blisters, calluses, aging feet, cracked heels and verrucas. Podiatrists are also engaged in sports medicine. The podiatrist helps in the treatment of sports injuries such as pain, sprains and fractures in the lower limbs and feet.
What treatment methods does the podiatrist use?
The podiatrist may prescribe special shoe insoles that will help reduce pain in your feet. In severe conditions, cortisone injections may be needed. Podiatrists may also conduct surgery as a way of rehabilitating ailing limbs and feet. Corn plasters are used to treat corns and calluses. Various preventive measures are recommended for diabetic patients to prevent the formation of corns and other feet injuries.
How does one become a podiatrist?
To practice podiatry In Australia, one has to have a bachelor's degree in podiatry. Some podiatrists may also take postgraduate training and education courses to improve their skill. Podiatrists must also be licensed and registered to practice.
How do you find a podiatrist?
There are many podiatrists that advertise their services online. However, the best way to get a podiatrist is through a referral. You may seek a referral through your general practitioner or friends and family who have used podiatry services before. The podiatrist that you visit must be qualified and registered to practice. He or she must possess excellent communication skills that make it easy to diagnose ailments and prescribe treatments.
A podiatrist is a medical practitioner dealing with ailments of the feet and lower limbs. He or she treats conditions such as smelly feet, athlete's foot, blisters, and calluses. Treatment options range from preventive measures to injections or surgery depending on the stage of the illness. To find a podiatrist, rely on referrals and ensure that the podiatrist is qualified and has excellent communication skills.